In a proactive move to foster the development of grassroots sports, Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj chaired a review meeting at the Kalinga Stadium today.
The session focused on the master plan for constructing block-level stadiums and enhancing the state’s grassroots sports ecosystem.
Minister Suraj announced an allocation of Rs 4,124 crore for the construction of block-level stadiums across Odisha. “Our goal is to nurture sporting talent in every village and block, ensuring a strong foundation for the state’s sports ecosystem,” he emphasized. The minister reiterated the primary focus on grassroots sports, talent nurturing, and providing quality training to sportspersons.
In a bid to promote grassroots-level sports, the CM Trophy competition has been introduced. Minister Suraj highlighted the successful hosting of international sporting events like the FIH Hockey Pro League at the Kalinga Stadium. He also lauded the performance of Odisha’s athletes in this year’s National Games, with the state securing a position among the top 15 states in the country. Minister Suraj expressed confidence that Odisha’s sportspersons would continue to bring laurels by winning medals in national and international competitions.
Apart from infrastructural development, Minister Suraj directed department officials to expedite all projects and ensure their timely execution.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary of Sports and Youth Services Department Bhaskar Jyoti Sarma, Director Dipankar Mohapatra, Additional Secretary Bijay Kumar Swain, and other senior officials.
